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It read: “It has been suggested that Colston’s Girls’ School should change its name in order to remove the association with Edward Colston. We have considered this suggestion and we have listened carefully to views on both sides.

A protest at recent school service at St Mary Redcliffe honouring Edward Colston drew protests (Image: James Beck)

“After much discussion, it has been agreed that it would not be appropriate to rename the school.

“There is no doubt that Colston’s Girls’ School exists today as an outstanding school for girls, nationally known for its academic excellence and well respected for its inclusivity and diversity - because of the financial endowment given by Edward Colston, but we see no benefit in denying the school’s financial origin and obscuring history itself.

“To the contrary, by enabling our students to engage thoughtfully with our past, we continue to encourage them to ask questions about present-day moral values and to stand up for what they believe is right.”